Arsenal wins People's Choice Award

On June 26 2015, Arsenal FC Disabled Supporters proudly accepted the Changing Places People’s Choice Award, in celebration of becoming the first Premier League club to install a fully accessible disabled toilet.

This is the first year of the award and nominations were made by 74 selected campaigners and followers of the Changing Places campaign. Arsenal FC came a clear favourite following the vote, with the presentation taking place as part of Arsenal Disabled Supporters End of Season Social.

Arsenal legend and 80s midfield maestro, Brian Talbot, gave his support on the night alongside UEFA cup winners cup and FA cup winner Jimmy Carter. They were joined by ex-Eastenders star Tom Watt, known for his role as Lofty Holloway, to celebrate ‘Arsenal for Everyone’, the equality and diversity campaign which strives to ensure supporters, staff and everyone connected to Arsenal Football Club feels an equal sense of belonging.

Leroy Binns, Changing Places champion, who has a learning disability, and Lucy Hemingway of Aveso presented the award on the night, which crowned a triumphant season for the 2015 FA Cup winners.

Leroy Binns, Changing Places champion said:

“As an Arsenal fan with a learning disability, I was proud to see my team recognised for leading the way in making attending games more accessible. I understand how important it is to Arsenal and to their disabled supporters that adjustments are made. Without Changing Places facilities, disabled supporters would have to choose between being changed on a dirty toilet floor, or missing the match completely. I hope that after seeing the Changing Places at Arsenal, all other Premiership clubs will understand how important they are, and build their own Changing Places facility in the coming seasons.”

The opening of the Changing Places facilities took place back in April 2014. Thanks to Changing Places facilities now being available, all Arsenal fans can take part in supporting their favourite club.

Alun Francis, Arsenal Disability Liaison Officer, said:

“We are all incredibly proud to be the first Premier League stadium to install a Changing Places toilet. Arsenal values everyone connected to the Club and we want all visitors to the Emirates Stadium to feel like they belong here and enjoy an equal matchday experience without the stress that standard disabled toilets can cause.”

Lucy Hemingway of Aveso, a specialist in the design and installation of Changing Places toilets said:

“As sponsors of the Changing Places campaign, we are proud to manufacture and recommend the equipment for such a valuable and important facility. The Arsenal FC Changing Places toilet will enable thousands of fans to experience and enjoy the game in the knowledge that both themselves and their family/carer can enjoy a stress free day out. This Changing Places facility sets the bar for every Premiership club.”